ZTE Axon 40 Ultra

Review: ZTE Axon 40 Ultra - A Bold Statement with a Stunning View

I've spent the past few weeks thoroughly testing the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra, and I have to say, it’s a device that leaves a lasting impression. At a price point that puts it squarely in the premium mid-range category, the Axon 40 Ultra aims to deliver a flagship experience without the truly top-tier price tag. After putting it through its paces in various scenarios, from daily commutes to weekend photography expeditions, I have a clear understanding of its strengths and where it might fall short for some users.

Carving a Niche: Where Does the Axon 40 Ultra Fit?

The Axon 40 Ultra arrives at an interesting juncture in the smartphone market. ZTE has been consistently pushing the boundaries of display technology, and this phone is a testament to that. Their strategy seems to be focused on delivering innovative features, like the truly seamless under-display camera, combined with robust performance at a competitive price. In a market dominated by a few key players, ZTE is carving a niche for itself by offering a distinctive design and feature set. Personally, I think the pricing is ambitious but justifiable given the hardware on offer, appealing to users who want a standout device without breaking the bank for the absolute latest silicon.

Design and Hardware: A Visual and Tactile Experience

My first impression of the Axon 40 Ultra was undeniably positive. The curved display and the overall build feel undeniably premium. Holding it in hand, the weight (at 204g) feels substantial and contributes to that premium feel, though it's worth noting for those who prefer lighter phones. The quality of materials used is evident, from the smooth glass back to the precisely crafted metal frame. While I haven't subjected it to any drop tests (and wouldn't recommend you do either!), it feels robust enough for everyday use. The button placement is intuitive, and the overall ergonomics, despite its larger size, are surprisingly comfortable for extended use.

Display: A Window to Vibrant Worlds

The 6.8-inch AMOLED display is undoubtedly the star of the show. In my testing, the brightness levels have been more than sufficient even under direct sunlight, making outdoor visibility a non-issue. Media consumption on this screen is a truly immersive experience. Colors are vibrant and punchy thanks to the 10-bit color depth and HDR10+ support, making movies and videos a joy to watch. Gaming is equally impressive, with the 120Hz refresh rate delivering incredibly smooth visuals. Even for everyday tasks like browsing and scrolling through social media, the fluidity of the display is noticeable and appreciated. I've found that the curved edges enhance the immersive feeling, though some might find it slightly more prone to accidental touches – a minor trade-off for the aesthetic appeal, in my opinion.

Performance: Power Where It Counts

Under the hood, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 delivers the expected flagship-level performance. In my real-world testing, the Axon 40 Ultra handled everything I threw at it with ease. Gaming sessions on demanding titles were smooth and stutter-free, with the Adreno 730 GPU providing ample graphical grunt. Multitasking was a breeze, with quick app switching and no noticeable lag even with numerous apps running in the background. I have to point out the effective cooling system – during extended gaming sessions, the phone did get warm, but it never reached uncomfortable temperatures, a significant plus for mobile gamers. From my experience, this phone is a capable performer that can handle demanding tasks without breaking a sweat.

Camera System: A Trio of 64MP Versatility

The camera system is where the Axon 40 Ultra truly distinguishes itself. Equipping all three rear lenses with 64MP sensors is a bold move, and in my actual photo-taking experience, it translates to impressive versatility. The main lens, with its larger sensor and bright aperture, captures excellent detail and dynamic range, as evidenced by some stunning landscape shots I took during a recent hike. The ultra-wide lens is equally capable, offering a consistent color profile with the main sensor and performing admirably in various lighting conditions. The telephoto lens, offering a respectable optical zoom, allowed me to capture detailed shots of distant subjects.

I specifically tested the telephoto in low-light scenarios, and while it doesn't quite match the dedicated telephoto prowess of some top-tier flagships, it still delivers usable results. Video recording is also a strong suit, with the phone capable of capturing crisp 8K footage, though I found the 4K options with excellent stabilization more practical for everyday use. Compared to market alternatives, the Axon 40 Ultra’s camera system stands out for its consistency across all three lenses. In real-world usage scenarios, this means you can switch between focal lengths without a significant drop in image quality, which is a major advantage.

Battery and Charging: Endurance for the Day and Beyond

Battery life has been a reliable aspect of my experience with the Axon 40 Ultra. The 5000mAh battery comfortably gets me through a full day of moderate to heavy usage, including social media, web browsing, some gaming, and photography. In my charging speed testing, the 65W fast charging lived up to its claims, taking the phone from near-empty to a significant charge in a remarkably short time. Power management seems well-optimized, preventing excessive battery drain in standby. For users who prioritize long battery life and quick top-ups, the Axon 40 Ultra delivers on both fronts.

Software: A Functional Foundation

The Axon 40 Ultra launches with Android 12, overlaid with ZTE's MiFavor UI. Daily usage has been smooth and responsive. The interface is relatively clean and intuitive, although it might not be as feature-rich or visually polished as some other Android skins. While ZTE has promised an update to Android 13, the fact that it didn't launch with the latest version is a point worth noting. Feature-wise, MiFavor UI offers the standard array of customization options and utilities. From my experience, the software is functional and gets the job done, though it might not be the biggest selling point for users who are particularly invested in specific software ecosystems.

Value Analysis: A Compelling Proposition

My personal take on the Axon 40 Ultra's value is largely positive. For the price, you're getting a phone with a truly stunning display, powerful performance, and a versatile camera system. I think this phone is particularly well-suited for users who prioritize visual experience and photographic capabilities. If you're someone who consumes a lot of media, enjoys mobile gaming, or loves taking photos, the Axon 40 Ultra is a strong contender. However, those who are deeply invested in a particular software ecosystem or require the absolute cutting-edge performance might still gravitate towards more expensive flagship options. In the competitive landscape of the premium mid-range, the Axon 40 Ultra offers a unique combination of features that make it stand out.

Conclusion: A Bold Choice Worth Considering

Overall, I've been genuinely impressed with the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra. It delivers on its promise of a near-flagship experience with its stunning display, capable performance, and versatile camera system. The few minor drawbacks, such as the slightly dated software at launch, are outweighed by its strengths. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Axon 40 Ultra to anyone looking for a phone that offers a premium visual and photographic experience without the absolute top-tier price tag. If a striking design and a fantastic display are high on your priority list, this phone deserves a serious look.